Costco has been making waves in the world of spirits, and its latest offering is creating quite a buzz among whisky enthusiasts. Shoppers on Reddit have reported that Costco is selling Suntory’s Hibiki 21, a top-tier Japanese whisky, at a significantly reduced price of $690. While this may still seem like a steep price for a 750mL bottle, it’s a steal compared to its usual retail price, which ranges between $1,000 and $1,500 at most U.S. retailers.
Image credit: Suntory
Hibiki 21 isn’t just any whisky; it’s a highly revered and award-winning spirit. It has earned the title of World's Best Blended Whisky six times, making it one of the most celebrated whiskys globally. This whisky is crafted using a blend of Japanese, American, and European wood during its maturation process, giving it a unique flavor profile that includes a light, sweet hint of ambrosia and a touch of peated smoke.
Suntory, the distillery behind Hibiki 21, celebrated its 100th anniversary last year. In the wake of this milestone, the company has been gradually increasing prices for many of its products. This price hike makes Costco’s offer even more noteworthy. Despite Suntory’s suggested retail price (MSRP) for Hibiki 21 being around $350, high demand in the American market has driven the price significantly higher.
Currently, the Hibiki 21 deal seems to be limited to a Costco location in Torrance, a suburb of Southern California near Los Angeles. However, savvy shoppers might still have a chance to find this rare deal at other Costco stores if they keep a lookout.
This isn’t the first time Costco has offered remarkable deals on high-quality spirits. In recent weeks, customers have found other premium whiskies at bargain prices. For instance, Blanton's single-barrel bourbon was spotted for just $69, nearly $100 less than its typical price. Similarly, Balvenie Doublewood 12 whisky was available for just $42 a bottle, which is quite a bit cheaper than usual.
For whisky lovers and collectors, these deals represent a golden opportunity to purchase some of the finest spirits without breaking the bank. So, whether you’re an avid whisky aficionado or just someone looking for a special bottle to add to your collection, it might be worth a trip to your local Costco. You never know what exceptional finds you might come across.
About Hibiki Distillery
The Hibiki Distillery, located in Japan, is renowned for producing some of the world's finest blended whisky. It is part of the Suntory group, which has a long-standing reputation for crafting high-quality spirits. Hibiki whisky is celebrated not only for its exceptional taste but also for its meticulous blending techniques that incorporate both traditional methods and innovative approaches.
Established in 1923, the Hibiki Distillery has a rich history rooted in Japanese craftsmanship and attention to detail. The distillery is situated in Yamazaki, near Kyoto, where the natural environment plays a crucial role in shaping the flavor profile of its whiskies. This region is known for its pure water sources and distinct climate, both of which contribute to the unique characteristics of Hibiki whisky.
One of the distinctive features of Hibiki whisky is its blend of malt and grain whiskies, carefully selected and aged to perfection. The master blenders at Hibiki combine different aged whiskies to achieve a harmonious balance of flavors, creating a whisky that is smooth, complex, and rich in depth. Each blend is crafted with precision, aiming to evoke a sense of harmony and elegance that reflects Japanese cultural values.
Over the decades, Hibiki whisky has garnered numerous awards and accolades, solidifying its status as a symbol of Japanese whisky excellence worldwide. Its popularity has grown steadily, appealing to whisky enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike who appreciate the craftsmanship and subtlety that define Hibiki's signature style. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in classic cocktails, Hibiki whisky continues to be a cherished choice for those seeking a refined drinking experience rooted in tradition and innovation.